[63.04] A Public Domain CCD Camera Design

R.A.Tucker (Southwest Cryostatics)

A prototype CCD camera design has been developed in support
of the GNAT (Global Network of Automated Telescopes) project.
This design is capable of operating essentially any CCD imaging
device with a single readout amplifier, including large devices
such as the Loral CCD441, a 2 kilopixel square array. A camera
constructed according to the design documentation will provide
low-noise signal processing, 16-bit digitization, and a readout
speed capability approaching 50 kilopixels/second. Although
capable of supporting large imagers and operating in a wide
variety of imaging modes such as n x m binning, sub-array
readout, and continuous scanning, a key design consideration has
been low cost of construction. Enhancements of this design will
permit parallel operation of multiple imagers, increasing
effective sky coverage.
The placement of a well documented camera design into the
public domain will permit even very modestly funded researchers
and institutions to acquire an instrument-quality camera. The
construction and operation of this system will also provide
valuable experience and educational opportunities.